A bike trail in Bella Vista, Arkansas.

7 Safest Towns In Arkansas For Senior Living

Do you dream of a quiet, safe, and comfortable retirement? Arkansas, also called "The Land of Opportunity" or "The Natural State," combines scenic beauty with an affordable lifestyle that provides a good fit for seniors. From Native American settlements to its role in westward expansion, Arkansas is drenched in a rich history that is as varied as its landscapes. Arkansas has become a haven for out-of-state retirees looking for tranquility, low crime rates, and first-rate amenities. From Bella Vista's lakes and golf courses to resort-style living in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas has safe and welcoming towns waiting for you. Begin planning your dream retirement in one of Arkansas' safest communities.

Bella Vista

Tourists sitting on bench at Tanyard Creek Nature Trail Bella Vista, Northwest Arkansas
People sitting on a bench at Tanyard Creek Nature Trail Bella Vista, Arkansas.

Bella Vista is a retirement haven in Northwest Arkansas and is in the 93rd percentile for safety, according to crimegrade.org. With only 49 violent crimes reported in 2019 (according to fbi.gov) and no murders, seniors are assured of peace of mind. Its median home value is an affordable $337,978, and it has a community like Bella Vista Village for seniors.

The town has seven lakes, which offer fishing and kayaking, and eight golf courses for recreational purposes. For seniors, there is the Tanyard Creek Nature Trail, which is a beautiful trail walk for quiet and scenic escapes into nature.

For cultural and historical landmarks, the architectural splendor of the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel greets one with a tranquil retreat. The 40 Trail System joins local dining and shops together, combining some of the areas' natural beauty with modern conveniences. Proximity to Bentonville provides direct access to interesting places like the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and excellent treatment facilities.

Heber Springs

Fall foliage in the beautiful Arkansas State University-Heber Springs Campus in Heber Springs, Arkansas.
Fall foliage in the beautiful Arkansas State University-Heber Springs Campus in Heber Springs, Arkansas.

Heber Springs is a quiet, safe town that gives retirees a blend of historical charm, cultural attractions, and recreational activities. With only 24 violent crimes reported in 2019 and no murders, it ranks among the safest towns for senior living. At the hub of the city is Greers Ferry Lake, a hot destination for fishing, swimming, and sailing. Surrounding the lake, the town marries natural beauty with a welcoming atmosphere.

The Heber Springs Commercial Historic District is also a hub for early 20th-century building facades and antique shops, joined by cafes offering a quaint downtown. The Woman's Community Club Band Shell in Spring Park, built in 1933, offers cultural events and performances that help add to the town's sprightly atmosphere.

The Heber Springs Medical Center keeps all healthcare needs well taken care of, providing quality care for retirees. Housing remains affordable, with a median home value of $240,000, offering a range of options for comfortable living.

Hot Springs Village

Looking Down from Hot Springs Mountain Tower into Hot Springs Village in Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas.
Looking Down from Hot Springs Mountain Tower into Hot Springs Village in Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas.

About 30 minutes away from Hot Springs National Park, Hot Springs Village is a safe and senior-friendly gated community. It ranks in the 64th percentile for safety, according to crimegrade.org. The median home price is $296,480, an affordable option in retirement for active, quiet living.

The village offers 11 fishing lakes, great for kayaking or simply sitting by one of the most beautiful lakes within the village. The town also has nine golf courses for the 'hack' amateurs to professional players. Seniors enjoy several wonderful trails through the breathtaking Ouachita Mountains. Proximity to medical health care is taken care of offsite at the Baptist Health Medical Center in Hot Springs.

From Bathhouse Row, one of the most historic in the country, to the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, one of North America's oldest continuing festivals of this type, there are abundant cultural opportunities in Hot Springs.

Mountain Home

View from the Baxter County Courthouse in Mountain Home, Arkansas.
Baxter County Courthouse in Mountain Home, Arkansas. Image credit Brandonrush, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

Retirees will have a safe, serene retreat amidst the beautiful Ozark Mountain at Mountain Home. With only 32 violent crimes and no murders reported in 2019 (according to fbi.gov), seniors will feel safe and sound.

Housing in the area is affordable, with a median home value of about $227,449. There are different housing options for seniors in the town, from low-maintenance communities to specially designed ones with a focus on comfort and ease.

Nestled between Norfork Lake and Bull Shoals Lake, Mountain Home offers ample opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and leisurely walks. The Baxter Regional Medical Center ensures that retirees access quality healthcare services.

History and culture come alive at the nearby Wolf House Historic Site, Arkansas' oldest public structure; a glimpse into the 19th century, This historic site is very close to the Jacob Wolf House, one of the most highly preserved two-story log houses, built in 1829, that provides good insight into the region's early settlers.

Siloam Springs

Old buildings in the historic district of Siloam Springs, Arkansas.
Old buildings in the historic district of Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Image credit RaksyBH via Shutterstock

A peaceful town, practically on the border with Oklahoma, which is ideal for retirees who value safety and charm. With just 70 violent crimes reported in 2019, Siloam Springs stands out as a peaceful and welcoming town for residents.

Housing is affordable, with a median home value of $270,000, affording retirees many options for comfortable living. Sager Creek, running right through the middle of town, and the beautiful John Brown University campus make for a nice blend of natural appeal. Just around the corner is the Ozark National Forest, allowing for endless hiking and exploring for the active senior.

You will never miss healthcare at the Siloam Springs Regional Hospital, which ensures quality medical services close to home. Further, proximity to Fayetteville, 30 miles away, expands the options in the town for healthcare, restaurants, and shopping.

Greenwood

The Old Business District in the Town Square of Greenwood, Arkansas.
The Old Business District in the Town Square of Greenwood, Arkansas. Image credit Roberto Galan via Shutterstock

Greenwood is a quiet, tightly knit town that boasts a low violent crime rate, with just 23 reported incidents in 2019. Housing is very affordable, with a median home value of about $220,000, which is quite ideal for seniors looking for a safe and budget-friendly lifestyle.

Seniors in this town enjoy Bell Park, which is good for walks, picnics, and beautiful views; the Greenwood Veterans Memorial, which memorializes the military history of the area; and the Old Sebastian County Jail Museum for a look at local history that is both surprising and interesting. Greenwood hosts an annual Freedom Fest, including live music, food vendors, and fireworks, which creates great opportunities for the seniors to interact with the community.

Centerton

City Hall of the City of Centerton, Arkansas.
City Hall of the City of Centerton, Arkansas. Image credit Brandonrush via Wikimedia Commons

This town is one of the safest cities in Arkansas. In 2019, Centerton reported just 53 violent crimes, underscoring its reputation as a safe community for residents.

Centerton is a quaint combination of small-town serenity with proximity to the amenities in Bentonville, just a short drive away. For seniors, the peaceful McKissic Springs Park is perfect for leisurely walks and picnics, while a stroll through the Centerton Farmers Market will present fresh produce and crafts. Moreover, health care is provided at the Northwest Medical Center to assure retirees that quality medical services are available.

From the peaceful lakes and golf courses of Bella Vista to the resort-style living of Hot Springs Village, several safe and friendly towns in Arkansas can offer peace, community, and affordability for retirees. Mountain Home has plenty of Ozark charm, historic sites, and great healthcare; Heber Springs mixes Greers Ferry Lake beauty with a lively community-oriented lifestyle. Those who want small-town charm would do well with Greenwood, its low crime rate, historical attractions such as the Veterans Memorial, and cultural events like Freedom Fest. Meanwhile, Centerton effectively balances small-town serenity with the availability of multiple cultural attractions nearby, courtesy of Bentonville, along with a host of other high-quality medical resources. Each offers a safe option for senior living, making one's Golden Years both fulfilling and secure within The Natural State.

Share
  1. Home
  2. Places
  3. Cities
  4. 7 Safest Towns In Arkansas For Senior Living

More in Places